Criminal system not working


March 30, 2011 · Updated 6:10 PM 

  • 0
  • Print Story
  • Letter/Editor

When people are punished for potential offenses, we all lose a lot.

Is that not exactly what we do when we sentence a person under the "3-strikes" law? Sadly, most of the people who struck out are not the "worst of the worst."

When we put nonviolent people behind bars for life without the possibility for parole for wallet grabbing or purse snatching, would that not be punishment for anticipated crime? Punish them forever for what they may or may not do in the future. Petty thieves almost always need drug treatment, not death in prison.

Our criminal justice system is punitive and resentful, based on revenge and retribution. How is that working for us? The large rate of recidivism is the answer to that. Society's rage to punish has created an abuse of power that is costing millions of dollars, which could and should be spent for education, transportation, health care and other needs that are underfunded.

– Leslie Berkseth

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.

So keep your comments:

  • Civil
  • Smart
  • On-topic
  • Free of profanity

We ask that all participants own their words by logging in with their Facebook account. It's a simple process that will take seconds and helps keep our comments free of trolls, cranks, and “drive-by” commenters. We reserve the right to remove comments from anyone using screen names, pseudonyms or false identities. Please refer to our Terms of Use for full detail on participating on our site.

blog comments powered by Disqus